The West Visayas State University College of Communication (WVSU COC) recognized outstanding student achievement, leadership, and service during Parangal 2026, its annual recognition ceremony held June 1 at the WVSU Cultural Center.
The event brought together students, faculty members, parents, and university officials to celebrate the accomplishments of COC learners for Academic Year 2025–2026 and honor those who demonstrated excellence both inside and outside the classroom.
In her opening remarks, Dr. Rona Dhel C. Alingasa, COC dean, commended the students for their dedication and perseverance throughout the academic year. This was followed by a message from Dr. Alona M. Belarga, director of the Office of Instruction, who encouraged the awardees to carry their achievements with humility, uphold the values of truth and service, and use their voices to create meaningful impact in their communities.
Serving as the inspirational speaker was Ms. Mary Zeliet D. Paris, supervising producer of GMA Public Affairs and a graduate of the Bachelor of Arts in Broadcasting program, Batch 2017, where she earned the distinction of cum laude. Drawing from her experiences in the media industry, Paris inspired students to step beyond the classroom, seek transformative experiences, and allow the stories and people they encounter to shape them into compassionate and purposeful communicators.
The presentation of academic awards was led by Alingasa together with Dr. Ma. Asuncion Christine V. Dequilla, vice president for Academic Affairs, and Belarga, recognizing students who excelled in their academic pursuits during the school year.
Adding a cultural highlight to the ceremony was a performance by Leobert Vincent M. Delariarte, champion in Vocal Solo Kundiman at the 2026 National Culture and the Arts Festival, accompanied by Prof. Ronie Libutaque, who served as coach and accompanist.
The presentation of non-academic awards followed, led by Dr. Shiela Mae C. Quero, division chair for Broadcasting; Dr. Ricky G. Abalena III, division chair for Journalism; and Ms. Joesyl Marie D. Aranas, division chair for Development Communication. The awards recognized students who distinguished themselves in leadership, campus involvement, competitions, and various co-curricular and extracurricular endeavors.
Another highlight of the event was the oath-taking of the newly elected COC Student Council officers, administered by Dr. Ma. Pilar S. Malata, dean of the Office of Student Affairs, marking the transition of student leadership within the college.
The ceremony also featured the presentation of the College of Communication Graduating Class of 2026, recognizing graduating students as they prepare for commencement exercises and their transition to professional practice.
Ms. Lara Jeunese Villaruel, college secretary and chairperson of the Awards Committee, delivered the closing remarks and congratulated the awardees for their achievements, encouraging them to uphold the values of excellence, integrity, and service as ambassadors of the college beyond the university.
